Flower Of The Month-Dahlia.

  Dahlia. Botanical Name: Dahlia Pinnata Common Name: Dahlia, Pinwheel Stem Length: 30 to 60cm Country of Origin: Mexico, Guatemala Available colours: Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, White, Yellow Dahlia's are usually only available in the warmer months, they are closely related to the Chrysanthemums. The Petals come in a range of forms, from closely packed 'pompom' types to the more tubular petals of the cacti-dahlias. There are single and double-petal forms as well. The Dahlia stems are hollow, which is the easiest way to tell them apart from chrysanthemums as their stems are solid. What to look for: -Flowers should be 3/4 to fully open as they do not open much in the vase. -Foliage should be firm and green, with no sign of yellowing. Flower Care: -Keep cool, never place in full sun. -Break bunches apart. -Strip leaves from the bottom half of each stem. -Recut at least 2cm off each stem and place in cold water. -Use a preservative- this will help flowers last longer.